This ONE Vibe Coding Trick Will Help You Build Faster

Introduction

In this tutorial, you'll learn how to implement mock-data-first vibe coding, a method designed to enhance your app development process. By using tools like Bolt.new and an AI browser (such as Perplexity Comet), you can create functional prototypes quickly, validate user experience early, and avoid common pitfalls that lead to extensive rework. This guide will take you through the essential steps to streamline your development process.

Step 1: Set Your Goals and Approach

Before diving into development, clarify your objectives. Here’s how to do it:

• Identify your primary goals for the app. What problem does it solve?
• Decide on your approach to development, focusing on creating a mock-data-first prototype. This means you'll fill your app with realistic dummy data instead of relying on backend functionality initially.

Step 2: Gather Your Tools

Utilize the following tools to facilitate your development:

• Bolt.new: A platform for rapid prototyping without extensive coding.
• AI Browser (Perplexity Comet): For auto-researching best practices and generating prompts.

Step 3: Create an Auto-Research Prompt

Leverage the AI browser to gather insights and best practices for your app. Create a prompt that includes:

• Purpose of the app: Define what you want to accomplish.
• Target audience: Who will use this app?
• Key features: List essential functionalities.

Step 4: Develop a Mega Prompt

With the information gathered, create your mega prompt for a curriculum app. This should include:

• User scenarios: Describe how users will interact with your app.
• Mock-data specifications: Outline the types of data needed for various screens.

Step 5: Establish Mock-Data Rule Set

Define a set of rules for your mock data to ensure consistency:

• Data types: Specify formats for text, numbers, and images.
• Sample data: Create examples for every screen, tab, modal, and button.

Step 6: Conduct Vibe-Planning with a PRD

Draft a Product Requirements Document (PRD) to outline:

• Functional requirements: Detail what each feature should do.
• User interface sketches: Draft wireframes or sketches for visual guidance.

Step 7: Build Your First Prototype

Utilize the tools to create an initial version of your app. Focus on:

• Basic functionalities: Implement essential features first.
• User flow: Ensure that navigation feels intuitive.

Step 8: Perform AI-Powered UI Audit

Run an audit using your AI browser to identify:

• Missing states: Check for incomplete interactions or transitions.
• Usability issues: Look for elements that may confuse users.

Step 9: Address Gaps Found

After the audit, address any identified gaps in your prototype:

• Enhance interactivity: Add modals and states for a more dynamic experience.
• Iterate quickly: Make changes based on feedback to improve usability.

Step 10: Implement Fast Iteration Loops

Utilize feedback effectively to make rapid improvements:

• User testing: Gather real user feedback on your prototype.
• Iterate in minutes: Adjust and refine features based on this feedback.

Step 11: Ship to Production

Once your prototype is polished and validated:

• Export to GitHub: Store your code in a repository for version control.
• Connect to real services: Integrate with Supabase, webhooks, and databases through Cursor or Windsurf.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can prototype faster, validate user experiences earlier, and confidently ship your app. The mock-data-first approach reduces rework and enhances efficiency, allowing for a smoother development journey. Start implementing these techniques today to see significant improvements in your app-building process.